Satisfying Tips for Unsatisfying Shopping Moments Can’t get no satisfaction? Beat holiday shopping stress with these tips to stay calm

Satisfying Tips for Unsatisfying Shopping Moments Can’t get no satisfaction? Beat holiday shopping stress with these tips to stay calm

Shopping for the holidays can be stressful. Between finding flattering party outfits, a gift for your Secret Santa at work (who knows what Bill from accounting wants?!) and the perfect gift for your sister-in-law, the holidays are rife with situations that can send even the most seasoned shopper into a tailspin.

Fear not: We’re here to offer relief. We found some #OddlySatisfying moments along the holiday shopping journey and mashed them into one video. Put this puppy on repeat while you’re waiting in a 20-person-deep customer service line to return that My Little Pony that you bought in the wrong color. Inhale, exhale…

Unsatisfying situation 1: Long lines

Long lines are inevitable, so use your smartphone to maximize shopping time while queuing up. Make a list (and check it twice!), do a quick budget recap, research sales for your next stop (hello, RetailMeNot app!), get extra discounts with gift cards like eBay gift card deals, and scroll Instagram or Pinterest for holiday outfit inspiration. You can also maintain your Zen by putting on headphones and listening to relaxing music, catching up on podcasts or following a five-minute guided meditation. Ommm…

Unsatisfying situation 2: Assault on your senses

Between the blaring music, overpowering fragrances, overheated stores and unflattering lighting, holiday shopping is a total assault on your senses. If you can, put in earbuds to filter the sound, bring a purse-size water bottle to stay hydrated, dress in layers (or leave your coat in the car), and have your favorite Instagram filter at the ready for fitting-room selfies—no one looks good under fluorescent lighting.

Unsatisfying situation 3: Crowds

Limited-time-only sales, doorbusters, special events and concerts bring out the masses, so be sure to check your stores’ calendar of events before you go. You can also avoid crowd burnout by shopping during off hours, such as weekday mornings or evenings. It can pay off to give the store a quick call and ask about the best time to avoid crowds, or time your arrival using Google’s “Popular Times,” which appear when you search for a store in Google Maps (and in the app).

Unsatisfying situation 4: Shopping fatigue

Although you may want to knock out all of your holiday shopping in one day, it’s better to plan multiple short trips—like during a lunch break or for an hour after grabbing dinner. According to an eBay study in the UK, shoppers cannot pay attention for long, with 60 percent getting shopping fatigue after only 32 minutes. The study says you hit a “wall of disenchantment” after that time, and purchasing becomes less thoughtful. Disenchanting indeed.

Unsatisfying situation 5: Disgruntled employees

’Tis the season to be jolly! But extended store hours, minimal breaks and demanding customers can sour even the most helpful store elf. Shop early in the day when staff is likely to be more energetic and patient, or take advantage of self-checkout options to avoid run-ins with discontented staff. Also, just be nice! It’s contagious.

Unsatisfying situation 6: Bathroom emergencies

We’ve touted the need to stay hydrated, so undoubtedly the bathroom will beckon. Check your mall’s directory in advance to factor bathroom stops into your shopping strategy, or download an app like Toilet Finder, so that you always know where the nearest one is.

Unsatisfying situation 7: Shopping bag overload

It can be cumbersome to carry all those bags, not to mention extras like your purse, coat or toddler. Check to see if the mall has locker storage, if a local boutique offers coat/bag check, or dispatch a family member to run packages out to the car (sorry, husband). It’s also a good idea to BYO—bags, that is. Your reusable cloth grocery-shopping bags hold a lot more merch than store-provided paper bags, and they’re way more comfortable when slung over your shoulder.

Unsatisfying situation 8: Food court temptation

It can seem like you’ve never wanted a pretzel more than when the buttery smell is wafting at you from the mall corridors. But because the season is rife with temptation, curb your holiday indulging by stashing nuts or a protein bar in your bag. It’ll keep your mood (and your guilt levels) in check so you’re way less likely to go home with a bloated belly. But if you can’t pass by Auntie Anne’s without buying a pretzel, at least use coupons. We’ve got them!

Unsatisfying situation 9: Wayward wanderers

Obviously, when you’re on a shopping mission, it’s best not to bring your kids, but that may not be possible for every trip. If your child is young, you know strollers are your friends: They offer places to stash purchases, plus a spot for your child to rest or play with a toy. If your child is a bit older, plan for some fun 15-minute breaks. Many malls have play areas, but you can also get creative. Find a bookstore and read Curious George, play an impromptu game of I Spy, or involve Jacob in the shopping experience by asking him to check purchases off of your list.